Individualized Studies

About Us

The Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies at Winthrop University is designed for students whose academic interests reach across or beyond the major programs currently offered by the university. Students will have the opportunity to design a plan of study tailored to their own needs and interests. This innovative, integrative and flexible degree program allows students to take on the exciting challenge of creating their own curriculum and a unique plan for exploring some area of study not defined by a single discipline.  Furthermore, concepts developed in research projects can be applied in internships, service learning, and study abroad.

The BA in Individualized Studies prepares students to meet the needs and challenges of the contemporary world by developing skills that are highly valued by employers, such as written and oral communication, analytical and critical thinking, knowledge synthesis, and collaborative work.

Examples of Individualized Studies majors leading to successful professions and graduate programs:

  • "Women's Health and Empowerment" (Winthrop, 2015) leading to full employment with leading women's advocacy institute in NY
  • "Complexity and Sustainability" (NYU, 2013) leading to a position as Manager of the Center for Social Entrepreneurship
  • "Sports and Recreation Management" (University of Maryland, 2012) leading to an M.S. in Student Affairs in Higher Education
  • "Global Health" (University of Maryland, 2011) leading to Brown University Medical School
  • "International Relations" (University of Maryland, 2009) leading to a position as a Disaster Risk Management Specialist

Examples of current and prospective Winthrop students' major themes:

  • "Forensic Anthropology"
  • "Script and Design for the Digital Game Industry"
  • "Entrepreneurship in the Creative Industry"
  • "International Community and Development"
  • "Visual Marketing and Public Relations"
  • "Integrative Social Studies"

 

  Ebony
Ebony Wilkinson is our first graduate of the IDVS program. After a successful internship at the Bella Abzug Leadership Institute in NY, she has been offered a permanent job with the non-profit.See her story here.